Staff Members
Mike VanBuren, Minister of Worship and Administration
Mike has been with Fellowship since January of 1998. He shares the pulpit equally with Pastor Shawn Hulst. His duties include leading the Consistory, Executive Team and serving on the Business Administration Team and Worship Team. He also supervises the staff and sets vision for Fellowship. He graduated from Hope College with a BA in Religion and then attended and graduated with a M. Div. from Western Theological Seminary. He has been married to Noreen since 1972. They have two married children and three grandchildren. In his spare time, he enjoys lifting weights, bow hunting, golf, landscaping and working on vehicles.
“I am glad that Fellowship has such a clear, Biblical direction, wonderful and devoted Christian workers and people willing to serve in Christ’s name. Every move I make and every decision I make is laid next to the will and the Word of God.”
Shawn Hulst, Minister of Congregational Care and Outreach
Since February 2001, Pastor Shawn has been engaged in many aspects of ministry at FRC: preaching, congregational care, counseling, calling and outreach. He counts it a privilege to be actively involved in the lives of members and regular attendees. Prior to coming to Fellowship, Shawn served 2 ½ years at First Reformed Church in Grandville, Michigan. Graduating from Northwestern College in Orange City, Iowa (History and Religion), Pastor Shawn next earned his M. Div. from Western Theological Seminary in Holland, Michigan. Shawn and his wife, Susan, have 3 sons: Davis, Gramm and Hudson. “Drinking lots of coffee” has been identified as his number one hobby (or habit). He also enjoys wrestling with his sons (and trying to pin all three simultaneously), working in the yard, and driving his Buick "Woody" Wagon.
“I have been blessed in such a way that I see God’s miracles unfolding in my personal-family and church-family everyday. And I am convinced that no matter what—all things are possible with God (Matthew 19:26). So don’t give up on God—and don’t give up on one another! He still performs miracles.”
Brian is responsible for Middle School, High School, and College-Age Ministries. He has been employed at Fellowship since December of 2005. Brian is a graduate of Coopersville High School and Hope College. It was during his years at Hope that he met his wife, Brittany, who is a special education teacher at Hudsonville High School. They have been married since May of 2006. Their daughter, Brinley, was born in May, 2011. They also have a dog, Sonic, and a cat Jinx. Brian enjoys being active and playing sports. You can find him playing basketball early in the mornings and riding his mountain bike throughout the year.
“1 Corinthians 11:1 ‘Follow my example as I follow the example of Christ.’ This verse is important to me because that is exactly how I want to live my life. I want students to be able to see Christ in my actions and words and invite them into that same type of relationship with Jesus.”
Drew began his position at Fellowship in November of 2010. He is responsible for our praise teams and choir. Drew graduated from Wayne State University. Drew and his wife, Holly, have four children: Emma, Gabe, Mia and Lena. He enjoys hiking, biking and woodworking. Drew enjoys our beautiful facility, working with the people and staff, and the sugary treats he receives.
Proverbs 16:3 "Commit your works to the Lord and your thoughts will be established." And Proverbs 16:9 "A man's heart plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps."
John Zwyghuizen, Assistant Pastor of Congregational Care and Visitation
John helps to meet the needs of the Fellowship Church Family through a ministry of visitation. He has held this position since 2004. He has a lifetime of pastoral experience in Japan, Allegan MI, Rockford MI, Clymer NY and Forest Grove MI. He has a BA from Hope College, a BD from Western Seminary, and a Th M from Princeton Seminary. He has also taken many courses at Fuller Seminary. John and his wife, Helene, have 4 children and 6 grandchildren. He enjoys outdoor activities, gardening, walking, working puzzles, ice-skating, fishing and camping. John also likes to spend time with his children and grand-children.
“We have a great staff and many wonderful people to fellowship with in our church family. I enjoy the ministry of visitation. I am doing what I love and loving what I do. I thank God that He loves me and blesses me. I pass God’s love on to the people He sends into my life every day. I bless people with God’s love, joy, peace, healing and hope.”
Jim DeHorn, Director of Adult Education and Discipleship
Jim is the Director of Adult Education and Discipleship. His duties include the recruitment, oversight and training of adult teachers and leaders. This also includes the oversight and training of disciples in our discipleship ministry. Prior to his employment at Fellowship, Jim had spent 40 years as an educator and coach. Jim graduated from Hope College (English and Kinesiology Majors) and obtained his Master’s Degree in Administration from W.M.U. Jim and his wife, Karen, have three children and five grandchildren. He enjoys spending time with his family, golf, working out, sailing, reading/studying and traveling.
"I am blessed to have the opportunity to advance God’s Kingdom through Fellowship and to work with a staff dedicated to following God’s will. Proverbs 16:3 explains that if we are doing God’s will and commit ourselves to the work He has given to us, it will be blessed. I believe God has called me into this work and He will help me serve His Kingdom."
Shelley Henning, Director of Children’s Ministries
Shelley is responsible for all programming and opportunities for kids, ages three years through 6th grade. She has been employed at Fellowship since February of 2007. Shelley and her husband, Mike, have 4 children, Caden, Casidhe, and twins, Logan and Landon. She enjoys spending time with her family, biking, rollerblading and running.
“I love working with kids, and they have been such a blessing here at Fellowship. They are a reminder every day that God wants us to have faith just like these children. Deuteronomy 6:7-9; To live out these instructions. To reflect my love for the Lord in all that I do, not only for my own children, but for all the children whose lives I am blessed to be a part of.”
Harold Zwyghuizen, Facilities Manager
Harold is responsible for the upkeep of the building, grounds and equipment, janitor work, and the maintenance of our fleet of church vehicles. Harold and his wife, Jan, are charter members of Fellowship. They have 3 children and 2 grandchildren; Linda, Larry and Lorie (Troy and Katie). His hobbies include camping and traveling.
“I enjoy the sense of accomplishment I feel in keeping God’s house clean and in excellent condition and in working with the staff. I try to live and work with honesty and integrity guided by God and Christian principles.”
Tim helps maintain and clean the church building. He has been employed at Fellowship since 2006. Prior to his employment at Fellowship, he worked as an electrician and plumber, and has years of experience in retail hardware customer service. Tim and his wife, Harmoni, have been married since 1991. They have 2 children, Bethani and Zeke. His hobbies include music, martial arts, fitness and biking.
“Working here at Fellowship enables me to witness to to others by giving them a clean and well maintained building. I find it gratifying to be behind the scenes and provide a clean and pleasant environment for people to work in and worship in."
Linda Folkert, Administrative Secretary
Linda has been a member of Fellowship for 25 years and has been employed at Fellowship since 2000. Her duties include keeping the membership database updated, typing the bulletin and newsletter as well as numerous other minutes, flyers, etc. Linda and her husband, Scott, have two sons, Jason and Brandon. Linda’s hobbies include golfing, heading to the beach, reading and vacationing in warm-weather places. She also has the privilege of teaching 8th grade Sunday School.
“I truly enjoy working here at Fellowship. I can honestly say that I consider it “fun” to go to work each day. The staff at Fellowship is awesome to work with. Proverbs 3:5-6; Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
Karen Longstreet, Assistant Secretary
Karen has worked part-time since November of 2004, mostly for the Music Department. She is responsible for ensuring that all rehearsal materials and schedules are available for each choir, ensemble and individual. Her job also includes taking care of all the nursery scheduling and recruiting. She also assists in answering phones and some general office work. She uses her talents playing the piano for church services and singing in the choir. Karen and her husband, Craig, have 4 children, Kevin (with wife, Laura), Rebecca, Jason and Nicholas. In her spare time, Karen enjoys reading, playing the piano and spending time with her family.
“I’m thankful that I get to work with a staff that truly cares about each other and the people of our church. Music has been part of my life from a very young age and I’m glad to have the opportunity to be involved in the music program both in my job and as a member of this church. I feel privileged to serve such a faithful God.”
Shelli Huizenga, Financial Secretary and Youth Ministry Administrative Assistant
Shelli Huizenga is our Financial Secretary and our Youth Ministry Administrative Assistant. As our Financial Secretary, Shelli is responsible for the Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable. Also, she is entrusted to accurately maintain the tithing receipts of the congregation, providing yearly documentation for our members. As the Youth Ministry Administrative Assistant, Shelli helps Brian Boom in both planning and administrating youth programs and youth special events. Shelli is in her 3rd year as a New Life Leader. She builds relationships with students and mentors small groups. “I feel like I’m working with my friends. This staff really loves and cares for each other.” Shelli has been a member of Fellowship since January 2002. She has three children: Matt, Sarah and Kate. She enjoys watching activities her kids are involved in. Shelli also enjoys bowling, reading, landscaping around the house, amateur photography and hanging out with the New Life kids.
Psalm 139:14-“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.” This is the message I hope to bring to the youth at Fellowship; that God made them exactly , and perfectly, the way he wanted them to be-- That they are His perfect, amazing creation and to rejoice in that knowledge."
Dawn Feenstra, Director of Small Groups and Special Events
Dawn coordinates all the Small Groups and Special Events. Small Groups include Spiritual, Social, Support and Sports groups. She coordinates these activities and all are invited to join or suggest ideas for new groups. Special Events include concerts and weddings that take place here at Fellowship. She, and her husband, Dave, have two children, Ellen and Dan. They have been members of Fellowship for 6 years.
“I really enjoy the friendly environment of the congregation and staff at Fellowship. I have been blessed in so many ways. I hope that through working in this capacity at Fellowship that our church would be a blessing to others who might not know Christ."
Elise Vesterfelt, General/ Web Design
Elise Vesterfelt is our Graphic Designer. Her responsibilities include designing and maintaining our website. She also helps the staff with any design needs that they may have. Elise has attended Fellowship for five years; she became a member in 2010. Elise is currently a student at GRCC. She will soon transfer to another college to pursue a degree in Marketing or Advertisement with a minor in Graphic Design. In her position at Fellowship, Elise gets to combine two of her passions: Church and Graphic Design. Her hobbies include music, playing the guitar, and hanging out with friends.
“God saved my life-literally! So, I’m going to live the rest of my life for Him. I strive to be ‘sold out’ for Him.”
Rob Kleinjans, Youth Ministry Assistant
Rob Kleinjans is the New Life Youth Ministry Assistant Director. His duties include outlining and teaching the New Life lesson every other week. He also attends the middle school athletic events and performs other duties assigned by Youth Director, Brian Boom. Rob loves the kids and leaders and enjoys growing and building relationships with them. He has been a member of Fellowship for his entire life. His hobbies include hunting, fishing, sports and snowmobiling.
“I am here to ‘win lives for Christ’ and in so doing, show and teach what it means to be a servant to Christ and to others.”
April Palmbos, Children’s Ministry Assistant
April Palmbos is our Children’s Ministry Assistant. She has been a member of Fellowship for 13 years. April and her husband, Steve, have been married for 12 years. They have four children: Jack, Casey, Charlie and Jessie. Her hobbies include running, camping, kayaking and cooking.
“Do it all to the glory of God-so that He receives the praise and honor, and that others may come to know the Lord."
Hannah Borst, Assistant Custodian
Hannah was hired as our Assistant Custodian in 2010. She is responsible for helping to keep the church clean and a comfortable place to worship. She has been a member of Fellowship for 16 years. Hannah enjoys working with her church family and feels it is an opportunity for her to give back to the Lord in service. Hannah also enjoys reading and playing the flute, guitar and piano.
"I believe that every day is a gift from God (Psalm 118:24). Living without knowing if tomorrow will come enables me to do my best when working for the world."
Ryan Kalman, Assistant Custodian
Ryan was hired as our Assistant Custodian in 2010. He has been a member of Fellowship since 2006. Ryan and his wife, Alyssia, have a dog, Sid and a cat, Ellie. In his spare time, Ryan enjoys snowmobiling, hunting, and demolition derbys. He is also on a local racecar driver's crew.